City of Sarasota Community News

FREE FRIDAYFEST ON THE BAYFRONT IS BACK AT THE VAN WEZEL

Wed, 16 May 2012 20:01:45 GMT

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall’s FREE, family-friendly outdoor summertime music series is back and better than ever!
This summer, kick back on the Sarasota bayfront and listen to outstanding bands play a range of musical styles that will please the whole family. FridayFest opens on June 8 with Sarasota’s favorite for oldies, Yesterdayze . Not only does Yesterdayze bring a hypnotic sixties sound—they dress the part, recreating the full experience! The band will sample tunes from The Beatles, Jimmy Hendrix, Elvis, Dionne Warwick, and more.

BENDERSON PARK HOSTS ROWING CHAMPIONSHIPS THIS WEEKEND

Fri, 11 May 2012 14:52:00 GMT

The Sarasota County Sports Commission (SCSC) and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (BACVB) is proud to sponsor the Southeast Youth Rowing Championships to be held on May 12-13 at Nathan Benderson Park. The regatta will consist of 1,700 athletes from five states including FL, GA, TN, AL and NC. Rowers will be competing to qualify for the US Rowing Youth National Championships in June. The first race will begin at 8:00 AM each day. The event is open to the public and there is a $5 parking fee. For more information visit www.regattacentral.com or contact Paul Blackketter at Paulblackketter@Benderson.com, 941-685-0637.

SCVB CHANGES NAME TO VISIT SARASOTA COUNTY

Thu, 10 May 2012 20:04:54 GMT

The Sarasota Convention & Visitors Bureau Inc. has changed its name to Visit Sarasota County.

MOTE RECEIVES GENEROUS GRANTS FROM FAMILY FOUNDATIONS

Thu, 10 May 2012 15:54:00 GMT

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium has received $400,000 in grants this week from two Sarasota-based family foundations — crucial support that will help us better serve the local community through world-class marine research and through hospital care for marine animals.

JUNIOR LEAGUE'S HEADQUARTERS RESCUED BY LOCAL BUSINESS

Fri, 04 May 2012 18:52:04 GMT

For decades the local Junior League of Sarasota has been known for contributing time, talents and monetary support to a wide variety of charitable causes, from child protection issues and teen court, to developing play areas in several local parks, children’s reading rooms in both Selby Library and many Sarasota County schools, and a host of activities at the Women’s Resource Center and Children First – to name a very few. So after giving over $1.2 million in financial aid to the local community, as well as endless hours volunteering it wouldn’t be a stretch to say the ladies of the League are more used to helping others than asking for help themselves.

VETERANS SET PARADES FOR SARASOTA AND VENICE

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:55:59 GMT

The Sarasota Patriotic Observance Committee and the Venice Area Veterans Council in coordination with Sarasota County’s Veterans Benefits Unit announced plans for this year’s Memorial Day parades and ceremonies in Sarasota and Venice. The Sarasota parade will begin at 10:00 a.m. Monday, May 28th at Main Street and Osprey Avenue. The route of the march will be west along Main Street to Chaplain J.D. Hamel Park on Gulfstream Ave.

VAN WEZEL'S 2011-12 SEASON - ONE OF THE STRONGEST YET!

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:10:35 GMT

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has just completed one of the most successful seasons in the theater’s forty-two year history, surpassing last season’s sales. This year’s sales were $6,207,790 and 108,737 tickets sold, while last year’s sales were $5,559,227 and 99,946 tickets sold. This amount consists of Van Wezel presented Main Stage performances only, and does not take into account local companies, event rentals, and Van Wezel Schooltime performances.

FREE AQUARIUM VISIT FOR MOMS ON MOTHER'S DAY

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:35:23 GMT

Moms are invited to enjoy a free Mother's-Day visit to Mote Aquarium, where you can learn how alpha female seahorses rule, how sea turtle moms lay eggs on Florida's coasts year after year and how mom (and dad) convict fish get room service meals delivered by their young.

SMH NAMED AMONG NATION'S TOP 100 HOSPITALS

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:52:23 GMT

Sarasota Memorial Hospital was named among Thomson Reuters 100 Top Hospitals® based on its superior clinical outcomes and overall operational performance.

THE COFFEE LOFT ANNOUNCES GRAND OPENING/RIBBON CUTTING

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 20:22:22 GMT

The Coffee Loft will hold its Grand Opening, at 5025 N Tamimai Trail on April 13th, and host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with community leaders, a Free Press Luncheon, and an Evening Celebration Party.

COUNTY LIBRARIES CELEBRATE NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:21:10 GMT

Libraries in the Sarasota County Library System will celebrate National Library Week, April 8-14, and encourage residents and visitors to stop in and experience why libraries are a vital part of the community.

SARASOTA COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM WINS '2012 LIBRARY OF THE YEAR'

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:59:23 GMT

The Sarasota County Library System has been named the “2012 Library of the Year” by the Florida Library Association.

SOUTHERN GOTHIC: PAINTINGS BY CLYDE BURNETT

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:58:30 GMT

The City of Sarasota presents “Southern Gothic: Paintings by Clyde Burnett," May 1-July 30, at the New Deal Gallery in the Federal Building, 111 S. Orange Avenue, Sarasota. A reception, with an artist talk and refreshments, is May 4, 5:30-7:30 p.m. The exhibit is part of a new visual art program showcasing local artists launched by the City of Sarasota that invites local artists to display their work for the public within a city-owned building. The program is coordinated and managed by Virginia Hoffman, the city's volunteer public art coordinator. For more information about this exhibit, call Virginia Hoffman at 941-400-5217.

THE VAN WEZEL PRESENTS THE 'RAZZLE DAZZLE' 2012-13 BROADWAY SERIES

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 19:42:50 GMT

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall’s 2012-2013 Broadway Season includes nine high-flying Broadway shows, and seven knockout Broadway “Specials.” The 2012-2013 Broadway Series is: CATCH ME IF YOU CAN (Sarasota Premiere, December 6 & 7), the 50th Anniversary Broadway tour of WEST SIDE STORY (December 10 & 11), TRACES (Sarasota Premiere, February 6), HERE TO STAY: THE GERSHWIN CONCERT EXPERIENCE (Sarasota Premiere, February 10), Cathy Rigby is PETER PAN (February 19 & 20), LES MISÉRABLES (March 5-March 10), HAIR (April 2), CHICAGO THE MUSICAL (April 9 & 10) and THE ADDAMS FAMILY, A New Musical Comedy (Sarasota Premiere April 22).

LIVE FROM DOWNTOWN...IT'S FRIDAY NIGHTS!

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 19:37:46 GMT

The Downtown Sarasota Alliance (DSA) has expanded our popular First Friday series to EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT from 6-9pm. Friday night downtown has never been better - featuring a different downtown Sarasota neighborhood each week. Every month a new theme to showcase and celebrate Sarasota's unique seasons and holidays. April is Film Month!

2012 REPORT RELEASED ON SARASOTA COUNTY HEALTH RANKING

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 19:31:51 GMT

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin released the “2012 County Health Rankings.” This is the third in a series of annual reports that ranks counties nationwide on health outcomes and health behaviors. This year’s report is available for viewing on www.countyhealthrankings.org.

'PAINT THE TOWN READ' RETURNS TO SELBY LIBRARY

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:24:45 GMT

Selby Library will host “Paint the Town READ,” from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, April 7. The event will feature author meet-and-greet sessions, book discussions, an open-microphone session, a book sale to benefit the Friends of Selby Library and more. The library is located at 1331 First St., Sarasota.

CIRQUE DREAMS DEBUTS 'POP GOES THE ROCK' AT THE VAN WEZEL APRIL 16

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:14:30 GMT

Dance, shout and shake your booty over to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall when CIRQUE DREAMS newest stage spectacle, Pop Goes The Rock makes its debut in Sarasota by presenting Cirque Dreams thrilling variety acts and acrobatic feats to popular songs and chart topping hits spanning the decades Mon. April 16 @ 7:30 PM.

'BURN THE FLOOR' IGNITES THE VAN WEZEL APRIL 19

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:01:37 GMT

Years before Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance turned ballroom dancing into must-see TV, one sizzling show was setting stages ablaze around the globe. BURN THE FLOOR, the electrifying Latin and Ballroom dance spectacular that has thrilled audiences in more than 30 countries, brings the fire and passion of their live performance to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on Thurs. April 19 @ 8 PM.

FOUR SCAT BUS ROUTES EXPERIENCING DELAYS

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:54:23 GMT

Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) is reporting buses on routes 5, 11, 13 and 40 are experiencing delays due to maintenance issues. For more information, go to the county’s website at www.scgov.net.

SERGIO MENDES & SPECIAL GUEST JON SECADA AT THE VAN WEZEL APRIL 15

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:02:33 GMT

Celebrating 50 years in music, multi-Grammy® winner and Band Leader Extraordinaire Sergio Mendes and three-time Grammy® winner Jon Secada bring a Brazilian high-energy style of Latin Jazz featuring Mendes’ mix of light jazz, bossa nova beats and contemporary soft pop melodies, and vocal stylings of Jon Secada Catch this upbeat performance at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sun. Apr. 15, 2012 @ 7:00 PM

ROGERS & HAMMERSTEIN'S SOUTH PACIFIC AT THE VAN WEZEL APRIL 3

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 18:50:49 GMT

This breathtaking new production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Pulitzer Prize-winning musical SOUTH PACIFIC, based on the 2008 Tony Award® winning Lincoln Center Theater production directed by Bartlett Sher, plays the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Tues. April 3 & Wed. April 4 at 8 PM. Derived from James Michener’s Pulitzer Prize winning book Tales of the South Pacific, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s SOUTH PACIFIC has music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and a book by Oscar Hammerstein II and Joshua Logan.

MOBILE HEALTH SERVICES OFFERED IN APRIL

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 19:26:05 GMT

The Sarasota County Health Department’s Health In Motion Mobile Medical Unit staff will provide free and low-cost health services at 14 sites around the county. Beginning in April, Health In Motion services will be provided at the Goodwill Manasota Center North Port,14809 Tamiami Trail (U.S. Highway 41 near Sumter Boulevard).

SARASOTA COUNTY TOURISM RECEIVES BOOST FROM O'S PARTNERSHIP

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 13:55:04 GMT

The Sarasota Convention and Visitors Bureau (SCVB) has seen a significant increase in requests for destination information and visitation from the Mid-Atlantic region, largely due to the continued relationship between Sarasota County and the Baltimore Orioles. Over the last three years, inquiries from the Mid-Atlantic region grew 2.2% in 2009, 6.4% in 2010, and 7.3% for 2011 during the January through March time period. The visitor intercept statistics for the same time period show a 44% increase in visitation from 2009 to 2010 and a 6.9% increase from 2010 to 2011.

SETH RUDETSKY TO HOLD MASTER CLASS AT THE VAN WEZEL

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 15:19:36 GMT

As part of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall’s commitment to its Education Program, SETH RUDETSKY has been invited to hold a complimentary Master Class on Audition Techniques on April 2nd from 1:30-3:00 PM. This Master Class is being held on the day Seth will be at the Van Wezel to announce the Hall’s 2012/13 Broadway Season.

SARASOTA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL NAMED ONE OF AMERICA'S TOP 50 BEST

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 15:08:28 GMT

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System’s superior clinical outcomes has resulted in HealthGrades’ highest ranking for 2012 – the elite “America’s 50 Best Hospitals.™”

VAN WEZEL UNVEILS ORCHESTRA AND DANCE SERIES

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 13:32:53 GMT

Next season’s compelling Great American Orchestra Series includes: The Philadelphia Orchestra (Sat. Feb. 9 2013 @ 8 PM), the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (Sat. Feb. 23 @ 8 PM), and the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra (Fri. Mar. 1 2013 @ 8 PM), along with two Specials: 14th Annual Salute to Vienna (Tues.Jan.1, 2013 @ 8PM), and violin virtuoso Itzhak Perlman (Thurs. March 14, 2013 @ 8 PM). The powerful 2012-2013 Bravo Dance Series features MOMIX: Botanica (Tues. Jan.22, 2013 @ 8 PM), Motionhouse: Scattered (Tues. Jan. 29, 2013 @ 8 PM), the Russian National Ballet Theatre’s Sleeping Beauty (Sun. Feb. 24, 2013 @ 7 PM), Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance (Tues. Mar. 12, 2013 @ 8 PM) and Parsons Dance (Wed. Mar. 20, 2013), and Dance Specials: STOMP (Thurs. Jan.3, 2013), and Traces (Wed. Feb. 6 @ 8 PM).

SARASOTA COUNTY CELEBRATES SIESTA BEACH DAY AT ED SMITH STADIUM

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:25:44 GMT

Sarasota County and the Baltimore Orioles will celebrate Siesta Beach Day at Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St., Sarasota, on Friday, March 23, when the Orioles take on the Boston Red Sox.

LIVE FROM DOWNTOWN...IT'S FRIDAY NIGHTS!

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:15:08 GMT

SALES CLIMB IN FEB. 2012; PENDING SALES RISE TO 11-MONTH HIGH

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:48:53 GMT

Pending sales in the Sarasota real estate market hit an 11-month high in February 2012, demonstrating once more the health of the local industry as the buying season heats up. Median sale prices were also up substantially for single family homes and condos in February 2012 compared to this time last year – another positive sign for a successful home buying season.

THREE TOP PERFORMANCES NEARLY SOLD OUT AT THE VAN WEZEL

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 18:34:54 GMT

On Sun. Mar. 25, 2012 @ 7:00 PM Sarasota Favorite Tony Bennett returns to the Van Wezel. Bennett has introduced multitudes of songs into the Great American Songbook. With signature hits like “Rags To Riches,” “The Good Life,” and “I Left My Heart In San Francisco,” Bennett “has not just bridged the generation gap, he has demolished it.” – The New York Times. The newest album Duets II (following up the platinum-plus, double-Grammy® -winning Duets: An American Classic) features a lineup that is ultra talent packed, including duets with Andrea Bocelli, Carrie Underwood, and the late Amy Winehouse

SISTER CITIES HONORS BOLLETTIERI AND ORT AT 'ONE WORLD' GALA

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 13:33:54 GMT

Sarasota, FL – The Sarasota Sister Cities Association has selected Nicholas James Bollettieri, founder of Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy in Bradenton, and ORT, the largest Jewish educational organization in the world, to be honored at the second annual “One World” Gala on Wednesday, March 28 at Michael’s On East. This distinguished award honors individuals and organizations that enhance world understanding and respect through their extraordinary work or volunteer service.

NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA NAMES DR. DONAL O'SHEAS AS NEXT PRESIDENT

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:53:16 GMT

Dr. Donal O’Shea, Dean of Faculty and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, Massachusetts, has been selected as the next president of New College of Florida, it was announced today. He will succeed Gordon E. “Mike” Michalson, Jr., who will retire as head of Florida’s honors college for the liberal arts and sciences on July 1, 2012.

MOTE SEEKING AREA RESIDENTS WITH ASTHMA FOR RED TIDE STUDY

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 21:39:05 GMT

Mote Marine Laboratory and the University of Miami are seeking Southwest Florida residents who have asthma — especially part-time residents who spend three to six months annually in Florida — to participate in a one-time survey about Florida's red tide, seafood consumption habits and your beach-going activities.

COMMUNITY FIELD DAY EVENT TO REDUCE CRIME TO BE HELD MARCH 24

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 20:41:14 GMT

A free grass-roots event, “Community Field Day: A Rx for Reducing Community Crime,” will be held on Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, 1845 34th St., Sarasota. The youth athletic event is designed to foster relationships between local public safety officials and youths in the community.

SARASOTA HALF MARATHON - SUNDAY, MARCH 11, 2012

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 14:17:16 GMT

This news release is to inform drivers of potential traffic delays and congestion related to the Sarasota Half Marathon. Drivers are encouraged to use caution if driving, or to avoid the area, during the anticipated congestion time.

NEIL SEDAKA RETURNS TO THE VAN WEZEL MARCH 24

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 21:15:55 GMT

Superstar Neil Sedaka plays the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Saturday, March 24 at 8:00 PM.

SARASOTA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU HONORED FOR AD CAMPAIGN

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 16:32:39 GMT

The Sarasota Convention & Visitors Bureau (SCVB) in partnership with our advertising agency of record, ChappellRoberts, was awarded six ADDY® Awards at the Tampa Bay Advertising Federation’s Annual Award Ceremony held in late February, 2012.

YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN MAKES SARASOTA PREMIERE AT THE VAN WEZEL

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 14:56:30 GMT

With book by three-time Tony Award winner MEL BROOKS and three-time Tony Award winner THOMAS MEEHAN, Music & Lyrics by BROOKS, and Direction and Choreography by five-time Tony Award winner SUSAN STROMAN, YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN makes its Sarasota Premiere Thurs. and Fri. March 22 & 23, 2012 @ 8 PM at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

SARASOTA FEATURED IN TV SHOW; CASTING CALL ANNOUNCED

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 19:30:18 GMT

British casting directors are searching for a Sarasota family to star in one episode of a new reality television show highlighting international sister cities. “Twin Towns”, a 10-episode reality show, will feature families from the United States swapping lives with families in their sister cities or “twin towns” in the United Kingdom. The selected family from Sarasota will win a weeklong expense paid trip to Dunfermline, Scotland, Sarasota’s sister city. The program will be produced and aired in the United Kingdom on the Discovery Channel’s DMAX service and in central Europe via BSkyB satellite.

BOWFIRE PLAYS THE VAN WEZEL MARCH 20TH

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:15:07 GMT

The string performance ensemble BOWFIRE will perform at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Tues. Mar. 20, 2012 @ 8:00 PM.

STEVE SOLOMON RETURNS TO VAN WEZEL MARCH 19TH WITH NEW SHOW!

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 21:36:16 GMT

Steve Solomon’s My Mother’s Italian My Father’s Jewish I’m still in Therapy! The chaos continues… hits the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on Mon. Mar. 19, 2012 @ 8 PM.

NEIL BERG'S '104 YEARS OF BROADWAY' RETURNS TO VAN WEZEL MARCH 17

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 21:19:42 GMT

The most successful touring Broadway concert in America returns for another spectacular performance at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Neil Berg’s 104 Years of Broadway, a dazzling, all-new show, features some of Broadway’s finest stars performing songs from the best and most beloved Broadway musicals of the past 104 years! It’s a magical evening you’ll always remember, Sat. Mar. 17, 2012 @ 8 PM.

GREATNESS BEYOND MEASURE: STOMP THE VIOLENCE

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 20:49:02 GMT

Young people often resort to violence, teen suicide, gun violence and participation in gang related activities for various reasons. Many of these reasons usually include the following:
1.) Peer pressure
2.) The need to feel accepted due to Low-Self Esteem
3.) Family struggles and issues
4.) Lack of support from loved ones
5.) Lack of positive images and influences in their environment and
6.) Imitation

MOBILE HEALTH SERVICES OFFERED IN MARCH

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 20:22:18 GMT

Sarasota County Health Department's Health In Motion Mobile Medical Unit staff will provide free and low-cost health services at 16 sites around the county during March. They also will be present at three special events:

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR 2012 GREAT AMERICAN CLEANUP

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 13:50:18 GMT

Keep Sarasota County Beautiful (KSCB) has begun taking registration of volunteers for the 2012 Great American Cleanup from 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 7, at sites throughout Sarasota County. In case of rain, the cleanup will be Saturday, April 14. The theme of this year’s event is “Own Your Own Project,” which encourages community spirit on a neighborhood level.

NEW COLLEGE JURIED STUDENT ART EXHIBIT ANNOUNCES WINNERS

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 17:05:39 GMT

The winners of the fourth annual New College Juried Student Art Exhibition were announced at the opening reception on February 9, 2012. The exhibit, open through March 2, features sculpture, painting, drawing and printmaking work by 16 New College of Florida students in the Isermann Gallery in the Caples Fine Arts Complex, 5313 Bay Shore Road. It is free and open to the public weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm.

MOODY BLUES TO PLAY THE VAN WEZEL MARCH 16TH!

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 16:15:48 GMT

The Moody Blues are still the Sistine Chapel of popular music.” – Rolling Stone. The famed pop/rock music group play the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Fri. March 16, 2012 @ 8 PM.

FIVE SIBLINGS, FIFTY FINGERS: THE FIVE BROWNS LIVE AT THE VAN WEZEL

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:09:42 GMT

The 5 Browns are delivering on their dream to wake up classical music by introducing it to the widest, largest and most excited audience they can find. Whether performing individually or together in various combinations from duo to complex five-piano arrangements, The 5 Browns reveal a deep connection to the intent of their material while bringing a fresh energy and dynamic character to the color and tonal spectrum of their sound. Don’t miss this classical music phenomenon Thur. March 15 @ 8 PM at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Ha

MOTE MANATEES STAR IN 'OCEAN MYSTERIES WITH JEFF CORWIN'

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 21:42:48 GMT

Hugh and Buffett, the resident manatees at Mote Marine Laboratory, will be featured during the Feb. 18 episode of "Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin." The series, which airs on Saturdays on ABC-TV, features the wonders and mysteries of the sea.

SPECIAL EVENTS: HELP MANAGE PARKING DOWNTOWN THIS WEEKEND!

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:58:34 GMT

This weekend promises to be one of the busiest, most successful weekends for downtown Sarasota!

'STEPS IN TIME' STARRING TOMMY TUNE AT THE VAN WEZEL MARCH 14

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 13:46:10 GMT

Nine-time Tony Award-winner Tommy Tune will perform at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on Wed. March 14, 2012 @ 8 PM with Steps in Time: A Broadway Biography in Song and Dance.

WOMEN OF IRELAND RETURN TO THE VAN WEZEL MARCH 8!

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 20:54:29 GMT

Women of Ireland is an innovative and exciting full stage concert production which showcases the well of talent that exists within Ireland’s traditions of music, song and dance. In the age of legends, when the Tuatha De Dannan were the kings of Ireland, women were revered and worshipped as goddesses. The show spectacular Celtic Goddess is a celebration in music, song and dance of the beauty, power and mysticism of womankind. The Women of Ireland are joined by a host of world champion dancers and critically acclaimed musicians at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on Thurs. March 8 @ 8 PM.

PENDING SALES SPIKE IN JAN. 2012; PRICES ALSO RISE

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 20:36:42 GMT

The new year started with a 38 percent jump in pending sales from the previous month, as reported by members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® - a strong indicator for a successful 2012 season for real estate agents and firms. In January 2012, a total of 963 contracts were signed for property transactions. The breakdown was 723 single family homes and 240 condominiums. Pending sales is considered a major indicator for the next two or three months of closed sales, as the statistic reflects current buyer activity. Local agents are reporting a high volume of showings, heavy foot traffic at open houses, and numerous cases of multiple offers for homes.

DO THE RIGHT THING - REQUEST FOR NOMINATIONS

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 19:25:51 GMT

“Do The Right Thing of Sarasota County, Inc.” is a combined effort of the Sheriff and four Police Chief’s in Sarasota County (City of North Port, City of Sarasota, City of Venice, and Town of Longboat Key), along with sponsors to honor youth in our community who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior.

SARASOTA COUNTY OFFICES CLOSED FOR PRESIDENTS DAY HOLIDAY

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:19:46 GMT

Most Sarasota County government offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 20, to observe the national holiday celebrated as Presidents Day.

VAN WEZEL PRESENTS 'A JEW GROWS IN BROOKLYN' MARCH 4TH!

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:33:07 GMT

A smash hit in the heart of the Broadway, where it played for a more than a year and a half, A Jew Grows in Brooklyn is an “engaging, poignant and hilarious” (Palm Beach Post) comedy musical about the search for identity and meaning. The highly acclaimed show chronicles the life of Jake Ehrenreich; a uniquely talented American born child of Holocaust survivors, Sun. Mar. 4, 2012 @ 7:00 PM at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

LILY TOMLIN TAKES THE STAGE AT THE VAN WEZEL MARCH 1ST!

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 20:56:21 GMT

One of America's foremost comediennes Lily Tomlin ventures across an ever-widening range of media, starring in television, theater, motion pictures, animation, and video. Throughout her extraordinary career, Tomlin has received numerous awards, including: six Emmys; a Tony for her one woman Broadway show, Appearing Nitely; a second Tony as Best Actress, Drama Desk Award and Outer Critics’ Circle Award for her one woman performance in Jane Wagner’s The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe; a CableAce Award for Executive Producing the film adaptation of The Search; a Grammy for her comedy album, This is a Recording as well as nominations for her subsequent albums Modern Scream, And That's the Truth, and On Stage; and two Peabody Awards--the first for the ABC television special, Edith Ann’s Christmas: Just Say Noël, and the second for narrating and executive producing the HBO film, The Celluloid Closet. Tomlin appears at the Van Wezel Thurs. Mar. 1, 2012 @ 8:00PM at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

SARASOTA BAY ESTUARY PROGRAM ANNOUNCES AWARD WINNERS

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:09:19 GMT

The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP) has announced the winners of the 2012 Blue Dolphin Awards. The awards recognize local champions of Sarasota Bay and the SBEP mission to restore and protect Sarasota Bay spanning Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

SARASOTA COUNTY LIBRARIES SEEK FEEDBACK FROM CUSTOMERS

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:01:42 GMT

The Sarasota County Library System attracts more than 2.4 million visits annually to its nine libraries, in addition to hosting virtual services via the website and online resources. For the third year in a row, library staff will conduct a “Voice of the Customer” survey on Feb. 13-18.

SARASOTA COUNTY SEEKING FIRE-RESCUE ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:54:15 GMT

The Sarasota County Fire-Rescue and Emergency Medical Services District Advisory Board is looking for members to serve. The purpose of this advisory board is to review the business of the respective assessment for the taxing district and to make recommendations to the board through the fire chief concerning acquisition of property, capital improvements, operations and maintenance within the district. Also, the board conducts studies as necessary to recommend and request such services and facilities as deemed necessary to the residents of the respective district.

LIVE FROM DOWNTOWN...IT'S FRIDAY NIGHTS!

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:26:34 GMT

SARASOTA MASTERS ART FESTIVAL THIS WEEKEND IN DOWNTOWN

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:34:54 GMT

The Sarasota Masters will be held February 4 and 5, 2012 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. along Palm Avenue in Historic Downtown Sarasota. The Masters promises to be Sarasota's Premier Art Festival.

FARMERS MARKET HOSTS 'BIG CHEESE EVENT' FEB. 11

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:53:54 GMT

The Sarasota Farmers Market will play host to the 4th annual "Big Cheese Event" Saturday, Feb. 11th. The festival will feature over 50 artisan cheese's from the Greenleaf Cheese Collection, making it the largest annual cheese tasting event in Southwest Florida. The event is open to the public and will run at the south end of the Sarasota Farmers Market from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

SARASOTA COUNTY LAUNCHES NEW ONLINE PUBLIC ACCESS FOR EMAIL

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:06:07 GMT

Sarasota County has launched a new online site for public access to email between County Commissioners and between the County Administrator and Commissioners. A link to the site is posted on the Sarasota County government home page at www.scgov.net.

MOBILE HEALTH SERVICES OFFERED IN FEBRUARY

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:56:45 GMT

Sarasota County Health Department's Health In Motion Mobile Medical Unit staff will provide free and low-cost health services at 15 sites around the county during February. Staff also will be present at a special event:

LIBRARIES & BALTIMORE ORIOLES TEAM UP TO PROMOTE READING

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:13:28 GMT

For the second consecutive year, Sarasota County libraries and the Baltimore Orioles are teaming up to promote reading through the Orioles Big League Reader program. Children who sign up for the program and read three or more books in the month of February will receive a reserved grandstand ticket to the Wednesday, March 14, Orioles versus Pittsburgh Pirates game.

LIVE FROM DOWNTOWN...IT'S FRIDAY NIGHTS!

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:58:34 GMT

NEIGHBORHOOD GRANT WORKSHOPS SCHEDULED THROUGH MARCH

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 21:57:17 GMT

A series of grant orientation workshops under the popular Sarasota County Neighborhood Grant Program will be held January-March at several county locations. The program supports the county’s initiative to preserve and enhance the quality of life in county neighborhoods by providing matching grants to neighborhoods to help fund improvement projects.

PROPERTY SALES UP 8.2 PERCENT FOR FULL YEAR 2011

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:57:47 GMT

For the full year 2011, property sales of members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® jumped by 8.2 percent to 8,224, achieving the highest level since 2005. The surge in sales was accompanied by stabilization in the median sale prices, which now stand at $155,925 for single family homes and $156,800 for condos over the full year, and have not
fluctuated much for the past 12 months.

FREE EVENT ON JAN. 21 TO PROMOTE HEALTHY HOMES IN NEWTOWN

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:12:28 GMT

A free Healthy Homes event will be held on Saturday, January 21, from 10 a.m.- noon at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, 1845 34th St., Sarasota. Organized by the local Newtown/North Sarasota community in partnership with Home Depot, the event is designed to help residents learn how to keep their homes dry, ventilated, maintained, clean, pest-free, contaminant-free and safe using the principles from the National Center for Healthy Housing. A home in the Newtown community that is in the process of being rehabilitated will be showcased at the event.

ADULTS AGE 50 AND OLDER URGED TO GET SHINGLES VACCINE

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:32:08 GMT

Sarasota County Health Department officials are urging adults age 50 and older to get vaccinated against shingles. Caused by the same virus associated with chickenpox, shingles is more common and serious in older adults.

COMMUNITY GARDEN COMMEMORATES MLK DAY WITH DAY OF SERVICE

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:29:08 GMT

The 3rd Annual Day of Service will be celebrated at Orange Blossom Community Garden on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, January 16. The garden is located within Orange Avenue Park off Orange Avenue between 18th Street and Carver Street.

19th ANNUAL DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. CELEBRATION

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:09:11 GMT

A time honored tradition commemorating the ideas of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the MLK Celebration Committee of Sarasota announces its 2012 Schedule of Events:

FORMER FIRST LADY TOURS MOTE MARINE LABORATORY

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:50:10 GMT

Former First Lady Laura Bush toured Mote Marine Laboratory yesterday, Jan. 11, to meet Mote’s world-class research scientists and encounter some of Florida’s most iconic marine species.

NEW COLLEGE RANKED #5 ON KIPLINGER'S LIST OF BEST VALUES

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:12:19 GMT

New College of Florida has moved up to the no. 5 spot in an annual list of the 100 best values in public colleges published by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, which ranks four-year schools that combine outstanding education with economic value. In 2011, the College was ranked no. 11.

TWO TURTLE TALES END HAPPILY ON LIDO BEACH

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:40:55 GMT

Two loggerhead sea turtles stranded in Englewood and Osprey and rehabilitated at Mote Marine Laboratory returned to sea this morning from Lido Beach — a happy ending to two tales of rescue teamwork.